Arsenal beat Newcastle United 3–2 in an energetic pre season friendly in Singapore. But the headlines went to 15 year old Max Dowman. His game changing cameo was on the radar screens everywhere. This was perhaps more so than the goals.
Match Highlights – Arsenal vs Newcastle
Newcastle opened the scoring through Anthony Elanga within six minutes on the assist of Sandro Tonali. Arsenal responded almost immediately. Mikel Merino netted from Havertz’s pass in the 33rd minute. Two minutes later Alex Murphy inadvertently headed a Havertz cross into his own net. This gave Liverpool control of the game.
Jacob Murphy levelled with minutes to go before halftime. The score was 2–2. The match stayed poised right up until Dowman’s run into the box in the 83rd minute. This earned Joelinton a penalty. Skipper Martin Odegaard stepped forward. And he calmly scored to claim it for the Gunners.
Dowman Steals the Show
Perhaps the highlight of the day came not from the first XI but the subs. Dowman came on for Bukayo Saka on the right flank. He was put in like a super sub. Dowman managed to make a big impact. He twice came close to scoring with shots. This tested both Nick Pope and John Ruddy. He then won the foul that resulted in the winning penalty.
Dowman’s performance was widely acclaimed. Mikel Arteta said that what the 15-year-old did was “certainly not common to see for a 15 year old”. He emphasized the support from Arsenal’s academy and family system. Dowman became the most fouled player on the pitch. This quite obviously impressed the club. He can be called quite mature for his age.
Former players such as Perry Groves praised his balance, awareness, and confidence. Former manager Arsene Wenger even likened Dowman. He also praised 15-year-old Marli Salmon. The players who have been ready for senior first-team football for years were also praised.
Arsenal Shape & Prospects
The game saw new signing Viktor Gyokeres brought on for the first time. Introduced to the supporters prior to kick-off. He didn’t feature but his presence—along with summer additions such as Zubimendi and Mosquera—marks Arsenal’s desire to create squad depth. Zubimendi was impressive in midfield with calmness and distribution, while Merino seemed sharp in his interplay.
These matches provide Arteta with an opportunity to experiment on tactical changes and new faces. With or without Gabriel or Timber, the team displayed fluidity and organization. Arsenal’s pressing appear more robust and creativity appears rejuvenated.
Newcastle’s Take
Newcastle used a combination of first-team players and youngsters. New recruit Anthony Elanga struck early, but the rest of their frontline appeared rudderless without Alexander Isak. The second-half rotation by the team could not increase the pace, and the defence struggled against Arsenal’s attacking virtuosity.
In spite of the defeat, Newcastle will treat the friendly as a stress test before their rest of preseason. Their defensive structure and transition play must be polished before the Premier League opener.
Final Thoughts on Arsenal
Arsenal’s 3–2 victory brought more than a result. It presented a vision of the club’s future. Dowman’s cameo was a message. Arsenal’s youth pipeline is still essential. A resolute second half and judicious substitutions showcased Arteta’s squad adaptability.
While pre-season is ongoing in Hong Kong. Arsenal will rely on the depth they have developed. Dowman’s emergence at only 15 demonstrates that the club’s academy continues to be an integral part of their plans heading into the 2025–26 season.
Author’s Note
This game was curtain-raiser and statement alike. Arsenal united youth and experience to triumph, with Dowman being a most convincing symbol of what’s on the horizon. It’s early—but if his development continues, there could be a homegrown talent on the horizon.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
